Sol Duc Falls Trail

 

The Sol Duc Falls Trail is only about .8 miles one way through an old growth forest. The trail is well maintained and very easy to hike. The trail has several very scenic locations. One is crossing and old bridge with a stone wall. After that you arrive at the historic Canyon Creek Shelter. This historic shelter was built in 1939 by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC). It is the last remaining shelter in the park built by them and was listed on the National Registry of Historic Places in 2007. The shelter is a little more than a half mile from the Sol Duc Trail parking area. The structure has a “T” shape and a well built fire pit with an overhead chimney. Overnight camping and fires are not permitted at the shelter. You are welcome to enter and look around. Its a very scenic shelter set in an old growth forest. It must have been very special to spend a night here.

Past the shelter you cross just over the falls along a wood bridge. There is several viewing points up stream after crossing the river.  The park service shows off photos of Sol Duc Falls with the bridge crossing over in the foreground. There is no access to a point like this! It was professionally done by rappelling into the gorge below to get the photo. Do not attempt to duplicate that photo (you will see in the visitor center).  Past the waterfall the trail continues to Deer lake trail (another 3 miles) and Lovers’ Lane trail (3miles back to Sol Duc Resort). Hike back out the way you came for an easy 1.6 mile trip.

Equipment: Light hiking shoes.
Directions: At the end of Sol Duc Road ther is a parking area. Trail is at the far end.